Remembering Uncle Ho in May

President Ho Chi Minh once said, “The most precious gift for me is the reports on patriotic emulation achievements.” Ingrained with his teachings, the Party Committee, government, and people of Phu Tho Province have long strived to nurture the most radiant flowers of patriotic emulation to present to him—especially during the sacred days of historic May.

Workers at Tasa Group Joint Stock Company promote emulation activities in labor and production.

United in the spirit of emulation

During his lifetime, President Ho Chi Minh visited Phu Tho nine times, showing particular affection for the Party Committee, government, and people of this land. He visited factories, enterprises, construction sites, cooperatives, and armed units and engaged warmly with people from all walks of life—from the elderly and children to soldiers and farmers. He also penned numerous articles and letters praising Phu Tho’s contributions to the revolutionary emulation movements.

In honoring his legacy, the Party Committee, government, and people of this sacred land have continuously upheld the revolutionary spirit, remained united, and overcome numerous challenges—achieving concrete progress that contributes meaningfully to national development. The province’s comprehensive growth and the rising quality of life are like vibrant flowers dedicated to Uncle Ho.

This May, in celebration of the 135th anniversary of his birth, Phu Tho proudly presents remarkable achievements in economic and social development. Most notably, in the 2024 Provincial Competitiveness Index (PCI) released by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Phu Tho scored 70.35 points—ranking 8th out of 63 provinces and cities nationwide, up two spots from 2023. The province also secured 2nd place among localities in the Northern Midlands and Mountainous Region. This marks the second consecutive year Phu Tho has been among the top 10 provinces and cities with the best governance quality nationwide—demonstrating that the strategic breakthrough of “drastically improving the investment and business environment” is proving effective.

Phu Tho also successfully organized the Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day in the Year of the Snake (At Ty) 2025, in conjunction with the Ancestral Land Cultural–Tourism Week. These efforts reinforce the province’s status as “the sacred ancestral land—the origin of the Vietnamese nation.”

Mr. Nguyen Huy Ngoc, Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee and Head of the Organizing Committee of the Hung Kings’ Commemoration Day and the Ancestral Land Cultural–Tourism Week in the Year of the Snake 2025, affirmed:

“This is the result of close attention and direction from the Provincial Party Committee, the People’s Council, the People’s Committee, and the Provincial Fatherland Front Committee; the coordinated and responsible efforts of all levels, sectors, and localities; and, above all, the consensus and active participation of the business community and people across the province. These factors have greatly contributed to fostering national pride and promoting socio-economic development.”

In the first quarter of 2025, Phu Tho recorded notable progress: total social investment capital was estimated at VND 11,470 billion (up 15.5% year-on-year); the industrial production index rose 46.4%; and state budget revenue reached VND 2,526 billion (up 7%). Key infrastructure projects are being accelerated, organizational restructuring is on track, and cultural and social programs continue to advance—ensuring social security across the province.

The Provincial Women’s Union planted a “model flower street” in celebration of the 5th Vietnam Women’s Union Patriotic Emulation Congress.

Widespread and meaningful Impact

Embodying President Ho Chi Minh’s teaching, “Emulation is patriotism; patriots must emulate,” the patriotic emulation movement has in recent years flourished across all sectors and communities throughout the province. Campaigns have been actively implemented at every level—from agencies and organizations to grassroots communities—giving rise to numerous exemplary individuals and collectives.

One such example is Ms. Le Thi Thuy Nga, a technical officer at Lam Thao Super Phosphate and Chemical Joint Stock Company. Between 2023 and 2024, Ms. Nga authored or co-authored 17 initiatives, recognized and awarded by the company’s Innovation Council. Her contributions helped modernize processes and integrate new scientific and technological advancements into production.

“I always strive to perform my duties to the best of my ability, especially in fostering innovation and excellence in labor to improve our production process,” she shared.

Alongside individuals, many collectives have also stood out. The Provincial Women’s Union, for instance, has effectively implemented the nationwide campaign “Building Vietnamese Women of the New Era,” attracting over 270,000 female members and officials. The Union launched various impactful initiatives, including a “model flower street” project at the Temple of King Ly Nam De in Van Xuan Commune (Tam Nong District) and the emulation movement “Women of the Ancestral Land Join Hands to Preserve and Promote Cultural Heritage,” which has supported over 500 projects related to heritage conservation.

In 2025, the Women’s Union at all levels registered 200 projects and tasks in celebration of key national holidays, the 5th Vietnam Women’s Union Patriotic Emulation Congress, and the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam Women’s Union. A conference was held to honor 45 outstanding individuals and collectives in the 2020–2025 period for their contributions to emulation movements.

These exemplary individuals and collectives—across different professions, backgrounds, and age groups—represent the most vibrant blooms in Phu Tho’s patriotic emulation garden. Their stories are testament to how well-organized movements and model examples can foster social progress. Beyond being a driver of development, emulation nurtures the strength of the great national unity bloc—enabling the Party Committee, government, and people of the province to overcome challenges and reach new milestones in the journey of renewal.

Ngoc Tuan